29 Bike Racks To Be Installed Around 50th & France

The 50th & France area is becoming a lot more bike-friendly, with the installation of 29 new bike racks throughout the commercial district.

Each of the new racks can hold two adult-sized bikes, offering space for nearly 60 bicycles. Racks were also recently installed on the Edina side of 44th & France.

The Bike Edina Task Force proposed the project, which is made possible through funding from a federal pilot program known as Bike Walk Twin Cities, a program through Transit for Livable Communities.

Rachel Thelemann, executive director of the 50th & France Business and Professional Association, said she has been trying to get more bike racks installed in the area for a while now.

"We want visitors and employees in the area to be able to walk, bike or drive to the area and spend the day," Thelemann said. "On any given Saturday, you see lots of bicyclists in the area, so these extra racks will be wonderful for the neighborhood, shoppers and employees."

The 29 racks are being installed outside of Cocina del Barrio and Walgreens along France Avenue, then on 50th Street outside of College Nannies & Tutors, D'Amico & Sons, Edina Liquor, Lunds and Lush Cosmetics.

Brad Schaeppi, a member of the Bike Edina Task Force, said the group is excited to see many years of planning bicycle racks become a reality.

"Between the enhancement of Edina roadways for bicycling and the city’s new bike racks, this is truly a watershed year in Edina," Schaeppi said. "This is a great win for our community and residents, to enhance our overall quality of life." 

The racks, which stand approximately three feet high, accommodate standard U-style bike locks.